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Chiang Rai Province North Thailand
Chiang Rai is the capital city of Thailand's far Northern Provinces. Chiang Rai is also the most Northern Province in Thailand, and approx 800 km from Bangkok.
It is a spectacularly mountainous region with the highest peaks at 1500m above sea level. Two bordering countries for this province are Myanmar and Laos (Lao PDR).
Best Places to Visit in Chiang Rai
It is at the northern border that the mysteriously named Golden Triangle is situated - the northern border defined by the Mekong and Ruak rivers.
The mountains are home to some of the famous Hill Tribes - the Hmong, Karen, Lahu and Akha. There are stunning views from the hills, and countless cultural attractions throughout the area of Chiang Rai Province.
The historical importance of the elephant is to be seen in the Chiang Rai Provincial seal.
The capital city of Chiang Rai is small, with many temples (Wats) and a beautifully scenic river - The river Koh - which runs through the province for around 130 kilometres and a river boat trip is a great way to pass through the heart of Hill Tribe country, and elephant camps. Trekking through the jungles is also accessed via such a trip.
But, the first stop for the city visitor/traveller is a visit to the King Mengrai Monument, to pay respect to the King.
It is a necessary custom, for the locals believe that respect should be paid to the founder King of the Chiang Rai province.
Caves, hot springs, caverns, mountains, national parks, hill tribes, botanical gardens and of course the Golden Triangle, are all part of the 'things to do' list for the tourist.
Historical buildings and hand crafted gifts ; national parks and and beautiful temples.
To go with these out of city attractions, there is of course Chiang Rai city itself. Hotels, shopping markets and cheap accommodation abound. The city dates back to 1262.
The famous Emerald Buddha is said to have been found here in Chiang Rai. A bolt of lightning split open a rock to reveal the Emerald Buddha - a jasper statue which is now housed in Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.
Places to Stay in Chiang Rai
Having some insider information about the different kinds of accommodation will be helpful if you are visiting Chiang Rai for the first time.
This section lists a broad range of short and long term options for staying in Chiang Rai with links to further detailed reviews.
- Camping in Chiang Rai
- Guest Houses in Chiang Rai
- Hotels in Chiang Rai
- Resorts in Chiang Rai
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